Visiting Two Medicine area
Introduction to Two Medicine in Glacier National Park
We visited Glacier’s Two Medicine area in early 2026. The lake views at Two Medicine Lake feel peaceful and wide, with mountains that seem to rise right from the water. Trick Falls, also known as Running Eagle Falls, is a quick, refreshing stop that never gets old. Boat tours are available and provide a different perspective of the shoreline. Hiking trails abound, and camping is an option, though 2026 brings changes we need to plan around. This guide focuses on on-site experience, current conditions, and practical choices for lodging and logistics near Two Medicine. We’ll compare places to stay, share safety tips, and explain the fee and permit context with precise numbers where we can. Weather in shoulder seasons means cool mornings and bright afternoons—pack layers. The National Park Service (NPS) remains the authority for hours and regulations, so we’ll reference their guidance as we outline plans and options.
- What to know before you book
- Glacier Park Lodge (East Glacier Village)
- Many Glacier Hotel (Inside Glacier NP)
- Two Medicine Campground (in-park camping)
- Lodging side-by-side comparison
- Packing for Two Medicine
- Frequently asked questions
- Getting to Two Medicine
- Permits and planning considerations
- What to expect: the Two Medicine experience
- People Also Ask
- Start planning your Two Medicine trip
- YourNPGuide team
- Two Medicine Lake sits at the heart of the area, with calm mornings and alpine views.
- Boat tours are available and a great way to see the lake from the water.
- Several trails exist for day hikes, from easy to challenging, including Paradise Point and Scenic Point.
- The Two Medicine Campground is closed in 2026, so plan lodging or alternative camping nearby.
- Vehicle access to Two Medicine is not reserved by a park-wide shuttle in 2026, but a separate Going-to-the-Sun shuttle plan exists for other areas.
Glacier Park Lodge (East Glacier Village)
A solid base near the eastern gateway to Two Medicine. This lodge offers comfortable rooms, on-site dining, and access to park shuttles where available. It’s a good balance of comfort and proximity to Two Medicine Lake and boat tours without needing in-park driving every day.
- Location: East Glacier Village
- Nearby Two Medicine Lake access
- On-site dining options
- Shuttle access when available
- Comfortable rooms and reliable dining
- Proximity to Two Medicine makes daily visits convenient
- Generally easier for families or groups seeking a base
- Not inside the heart of Two Medicine, so a short drive is still needed
- Shuttle service availability can vary by season
Many Glacier Hotel (Inside Glacier NP)
Historic charm with sweeping glacier-country views. This in-park option places you closer to a broader trail network and a variety of lodging styles. It’s ideal for visitors who want a premium in-park experience and easy access to multiple trailheads, though peak-season demand is high.
- In-park location
- Historic décor and setting
- Multiple trailheads nearby
- Variety of room types
- Iconic setting and excellent access to hikes
- In-park convenience reduces drive time
- Good for visitors who want a classic Glacier experience
- Higher demand in peak season
- Limited availability for last-minute trips
Two Medicine Campground (in-park camping)
The closest camping option to Two Medicine Lake, perfect for hikers and boaters. Note: the campground is closed in 2026 for a utility and road rehab project. If you’re flexible, this can be a fantastic base when open in other years.
- Close to Two Medicine Lake
- Seasonal readiness in non-2026 years
- Basic campground amenities
- Boat tours nearby when operating
- Shortest walk to Two Medicine activities
- Great value for campers who want easy lake access
- Closed in 2026 due to major projects
- Limited facilities compared to full-service lodges
Side-by-side lodging comparison
| Lodging | Location | Proximity to Two Medicine Lake | Dining Options | Booking Window | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glacier Park Lodge | East Glacier Village | Nearby, short drive | On-site dining | Seasonal, varies by year | Good for families; shuttle access when available |
| Many Glacier Hotel | Inside Glacier NP | Very close to multiple trails | Limited on-site options; several dining outlets nearby | Advance planning recommended | Premium in-park experience; high demand in peak season |
| Two Medicine Campground | Within Two Medicine developed area | Closest to Two Medicine Lake | No camping in 2026; park services vary | Opened years vary due to rehab | Best for hikers who want quick lake access |
Glacier Two Medicine Packing List
Clothing
-
Layered clothing for cool mornings -
Waterproof jacket -
Hiking pants and shorts for comfort -
Beanie and gloves for higher elevations
Safety & Gear
-
Bear spray where allowed (check rules) -
First aid kit -
Headlamp and Extra Batteries -
Map and compass
Boat & Lake Gear
-
Water shoes for easy boat dock access -
Dry bag for electronics -
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Frequently asked questions
Getting there: how do we reach Two Medicine?
Best time to visit Two Medicine for hiking?
Are boat tours available in 2026?
Do I need a permit to camp in Two Medicine?
Getting to Two Medicine
From West Glacier, you’ll follow a scenic route toward the Two Medicine area. Drive times vary with traffic and weather; plan roughly 2 to 2.5 hours to reach the Two Medicine entrance. From St. Mary or East Glacier Village, expect longer drives that wind through park scenery. The Running Eagle Falls Trailhead sits 1.1 miles west of the Two Medicine entrance, making a quick stop easy on days you arrive early.
Seasonal road work can affect access. In 2026, the Two Medicine Road rehab includes ditch work, parking updates, and water system changes. Expect spring and fall closures of the Two Medicine developed area during rehab periods. When the running road session is open, you can reach boat tours and the Two Medicine Campstore as part of the visit. If you’re relying on boat tours, the ticket office hours are posted for the season and can help you plan a morning boat ride before hiking.
Tip: leave the car and head out early. Parking at Two Medicine gets busy by mid-morning. If you’re staying at an East Glacier or Many Glacier lodging option, you’ll want to plan a morning start to catch the best light on the lake and avoid crowds at key viewpoints.
Glacier National Park Entrance Pass
All park entries and most day-use areas
$35 per vehicle for 7 days; $30 per motorcycle; $20 per person for walk-ins/cyclists; Nonresident fee: $100 per person aged 16+ (in 2026) if not holding a Non-Resident Annual Pass
Year-round with seasonal access variations
Subject to capacity and rehab-related diversions
Check NPS for current conditions and any special tickets. For non-residents, consider the $250 Non-Resident Annual Pass option to simplify entry.
What to expect: the Two Medicine experience
Two Medicine feels calmer than the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor, but it still delivers big views. Early mornings around the lake have a stillness that makes the water look glassy. The Trick Falls boardwalk is a favorite stop for families, with easy access and little elevation gain. Boat tours add a gentle, scenic float that shows the lake’s shorelines and forested hillsides from a different angle.
Weather can switch quickly. In shoulder seasons, mornings are cool and evenings can be chilly. Trails like Aster Park and Paradise Point reward careful hikers with lake reflections and pine-scented air. We were surprised by how much the scenery shifted with light—clouds over Never Laughs Mountain at dawn felt almost otherworldly. We wish we’d known that campground access is restricted in 2026; planning ahead matters. If you’re visiting for hiking, aim for morning starts to beat crowds and heat in mid-summer.
What surprised us: the lake is easy to reach from multiple trailheads, and even short hikes connect you to stunning overlooks. What we wish we’d known: how rehab work can shape daily access and timing. The Two Medicine Ticket Office operates boat tours with defined hours, so check ahead and book early if you want a morning ride. Overall, Two Medicine remains a gem for day hikers and lake lovers alike.
moose/tree bed, wood paneling, and a green accent wall." loading="lazy">People Also Ask
What is there to do in Two Medicine?
How do I get to Two Medicine Glacier National Park?
Is Two Medicine crowded?
What are the best hikes in Two Medicine?
Start planning your Two Medicine trip
We’re hands-on planners who want you to be prepared. Start by choosing lodging near East Glacier Village or in-park options like Many Glacier. Consider your hiking plans and boat-tour wish list. Book early in peak season and keep an eye on rehab schedules that can impact access. For the latest rules and hours, check NPS updates before you go.
Remember: as of 2026, Two Medicine Campground is closed for the season. If you’re looking to camp, consider nearby alternatives outside the campground but within a reasonable drive to Two Medicine Lake. If you’re visiting for a longer stay, plan day-by-day routes that balance hiking, boating, and rest. We’ve found the most reliable trip patterns include an early lake start, a lake-side hike, and a late-afternoon return for sunset reflections on the water.
What to bring: layers, rain gear, a small daypack, water, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Our insider tip: arrive before 7:30 AM to secure parking at key trailheads during busy times.
What to know before you book
Are there any special lodging windows for Two Medicine?
What about fees and passes?
What about seasonal access and road work?
Is there a shuttle system near Going-to-the-Sun Road in 2026?
Ready to plan your Two Medicine adventure? Check real-time conditions, book lodging, and map your lake days.
Always verify current conditions on NPS before you go.
